Bone Mineral Density

Bone mineral density (BMD) is a measurement of the concentration in bone of minerals (mostly calcium and phosphate) that are vital for strong bones. A high bone mineral density means above-average amounts of calcium and phosphates in the bones, while a below-normal bone mineral density can mean a loss of bone mass, possibly from osteopenia or osteoporosis.

By

Healthwise Staff

Primary Medical Reviewer

Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine

Specialist Medical Reviewer

Carla J. Herman, MD, MPH - Geriatric Medicine

Last Revised

August 30, 2012

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